Squamish settles with CUPE, Whistler still at impasse

Municipal CUPE workers are still without a contract in Whistler but Squamish has reached a four year contract with its unionized workers.

"Theyre in the same economic environment that we are and their political people have responded in a positive way rather than an anti-union way," said Pete Davidson, president of Local 2020 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees.

Whistlers 25 CUPE members have been working to rule since February. Talks with the municipality are still at an impasse.

Meanwhile the District of Squamish ratified a collective agreement for a four-year term last week. The deal includes a 2.5 per cent raise for 2004, another 2.5 per cent for 2005, to be followed by 3 per cent for 2006 and, for the final year, 3.5 per cent plus a cost of living increase based on changes in the consumer price index.

"Both parties have ratified and council is happy with the end result," said Mayor Ian Sutherland.

Whistlers workers are looking for a $4,000 cost of living allowance, among other things. Davidson said they are "open to bargain."